Long evenings spent around campfires, stunning sun-filled days and awe-inspiring summer storms. These are just a few of the things that make summer stand out to me, and they all begin to appear in June. Outside of the obvious natural features that make June such an exciting month to be in, are the great events happening in and around London. From theatre to outdoor entertainment, festivals and music, events abound in June. So explore a part of London you may never have seen before, find comfort in a tradition you've maintained for years, or perhaps check out these events and you can't go wrong.

The Oxford Renaissance Festival has been entertaining crowds since 2013, and has made its home at the Dorchester Fairgrounds since 2016. There is always plenty to do over the 2 days of the festival, including dining in the pub, live theatre, games for all ages, jousts and medieval bouts of strength and endurance, vendors, and so much more. Camping is available for the weekend if you so choose, or you can simply buy a pass and visit for the day! If history and live entertainment interest you, then this is one for the calendar.

The British Invasion marked the emergence of British music in mainstream North American culture. Bands like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, among others, created a cultural phenomenon when their music “jumped the pond” and began making waves in the music industry in the American continent. Feeding into and off of a counter-culture on both sides of the atlantic, this music was not only popular to listen to for fun, but spoke to the ideas that were forming about the way the world was heading. This 2-hour playlist of rock and pop music played by some of the best musicians today will take you back in style. To purchase your tickets, visit the Grand Theatre website.

A cruel headmistress, an uncaring world, and a reason to fight for change are all part of this story featuring a special young girl. Matilda is an imaginative and unique individual who works to stand up for herself and others through magical and other effective means. First written as a story by author Roald Dahl, it has since been adapted to film and theatre, including this performance by the Original Kids Theatre Company. Tickets for the play can be purchased online.

Cirque du Soleil has amazed audiences for years with their gravity-defying acts of acrobatics and athletics. Not only do their movements create awe, but with each new performance, a story unfolds. Corteo is the story of a festive procession imagined by a clown imagining his own funeral in carnival exuberance. With several showings, there should be no reason not to find a time to witness this spectacle. You can find tickets on the Budweiser gardens website.